TP63-driven super-enhancer-associated LINC01503 promotes the malignancy of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (4C-Seq)

ABSTRACT: Background & Aims: Lineage-specific expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been observed recently. However, the underlying mechanism of such specific transcription regulation is unclear. The aim of this study is to identify squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) lineage-specific lncRNAs and to investigate the mechanisms for their expression and function. Methods: Expression characteristics and functions of four candidate SCC-specific lncRNAs were explored. qRT-PCR assays were employed to measure the expression of LINC01503 in 113 tumor/normal matched esophageal SCC (ESCC) cases and its association with survival was determined. The mechanisms underlying LINC01503 function and regulation in ESCC cells were examined using molecular biological methods. Results: Using SCC as a model, we identified a novel super-enhancer (SE)-driven lncRNA, LINC01503, which was uniquely expressed in SCCs such as those from esophagus (ESCC) and head and neck (HNSC). LINC01503 was up-regulated in SCCs and its high expression correlated with poor clinical outcomes. SCC master transcriptional factor TP63 directly bound to a SE at LINC01503 locus and activated its transcription. LINC01503 exhibited strong oncogenic functions in ESCC cell models both in vitro and in vivo. ERK2 and EBP-1 were identified as interacting proteins mediating the effects of LINC01503. Specifically, LINC01503 protected ERK2 from dephosphorylation by DUSP-6, leading to the activation of ERK/MAPK pathway. Similarly, LINC01503 interfered the interaction between EBP-1 and PI3K p85, enhancing Akt signaling pathway. Conclusions: These results demonstrated that LINC01503 is a lineage-specific oncogene in ESCC, which may serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for SCC patients.

ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens

PROVIDER: GSE106432 | GEO | 2018/12/01

REPOSITORIES: GEO